1 John 1:5-2:2
Read 1 John 1:5-2:2
Helpful Background Information:
First John was written as an eyewitness account of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (1 John 1:1-4). After a powerful introduction, the letter begins with a summary of the whole message: “God is light, and there is absolutely no darkness in Him” (v.5). Since that’s the case, according to John, those who claim to have fellowship with God can’t just keep walking in darkness (v.6).
Those who have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus are meant to live differently than they did before. When someone claims to believe in Jesus but denies their personal need for forgiveness, their witness loses its credibility at best and presents God as a liar at worst! (vv.8, 10). Instead, it's when believers confess their sins and depend on God’s own mercy that they receive forgiveness, restored fellowship, and cleansing from all unrighteousness (v.9).
Again, John makes it clear that the point of God’s grace in the gospel isn’t that we would just keep on sinning carelessly (2:1a). However, he assures us that if we do stumble and fail, we can rest assured that the basis of our right-standing with God is the righteousness of Jesus Himself (2:1b). Jesus is the advocate and atoning sacrifice of all who believe in Him, without exception.
Reflection Questions:
In 1 John 1:9, we’re told that God is both willing and able to forgive all our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
Are there certain sins you’ve committed that you’ve struggled to believe God would forgive you for?
How does this passage push back on that fear?
In 1 John 2:2, we’re told that the atoning work of Jesus is sufficient for anyone who repents and believes the gospel. How does that truth impact the way you communicate the gospel to those who have not yet received it?
After reading this passage, where would you say the assurance of your forgiveness comes from? Your performance? Or Christ’s perfection? Close by reflecting on that question and praising God for His provision in Jesus.